This is a personally important topic for me.
As an invested local community member, parent, educator and facilitator … I truly believe we all want our children to and develop a deep sense of responsibility and care for the earth.
For this to happen we must support every child’s sense of agency to be its stewards today and everyday. Fostering these skills has always been at the heart of everything at Bush Knowing.
When we shift our focus locally we can to ensure a meaningful connection and understanding of the natural places and spaces that we explore.
I recently posted where l questioned how many children could name at least 10 of their local bird species…it saddens me to think that there are some but not enough.
Children ARE our Current and Future Environmental Leaders
We know .. children hold the potential to be the leaders, activists, and innovators of tomorrow. From reducing waste to advocating for policy change, today’s children will play an active role. But this will only happen if we start nurturing their connection to nature while they are young.
The Power of Families in Shaping Environmental Values
Families play a pivotal role.
The everyday choices families make—from recycling to conserving energy to choosing sustainable products—serve as a foundation for children’s environmental values.
By making eco-friendly practices part of daily life, families not only reduce their own environmental impact but also set an example for their children. These practices become ingrained in the child’s mindset, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of environmentally conscious decisions. When children see their parents making thoughtful choices to protect the planet, they learn that caring for the Earth is not just important, it’s essential.
The Importance of Connecting Children to Nature
Children who grow up with these experiences are more likely to develop a sense of responsibility for the environment. This connection nurtures a deep appreciation for wildlife, forests, oceans, and ecosystems—and it encourages children to see themselves as part of the natural world, not separate from it.
Teaching Sustainability Through Play and Exploration
Outdoor play and exploration provides rich opportunities for children to learn about sustainability in a hands-on way. Whether it’s planting a tree, or learning about local wildlife, children have the chance to engage with the environment in a meaningful way. These experiences teach them about the cycles of life, the importance of conservation, and the impact of their actions on the planet.
When families engage in these experiences , children can see firsthand the positive impact of their actions. This can include things like starting a garden, using reusable shopping bags, or reducing food waste. These small but significant experiences fosters a generation that understands the importance of sustainability.
Fostering Local and Global Citizenship
Teaching children to care for the planet helps them to understand their role as local and global citizens. By instilling a sense of empathy and responsibility for the planet, we help children understand that the health of the Earth is interconnected with the well-being of all people, animals, and ecosystems. This perspective encourages children to think beyond their immediate surroundings and consider the impact of their actions on a global scale.
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Earth Stewards Today
Our children are the stewards of the future.
Families, educators, and communities have a crucial role to play in nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders
By fostering a love for nature, teaching sustainable practices, and instilling a sense of responsibility for the planet, we can ensure that children grow up with the knowledge, skills, and compassion to protect and restore the Earth.
By working together as families and communities, we can raise a generation of young people who will care for this planet as if their future—and the future of all life on Earth—depends on it. Because, in truth, it does.
JO x
